Marcus Smart could return to the Boston Celtics' line-up as soon as Sunday against the Knicks


Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart has been sidelined since November 21, 2015 with a left leg injury, but could return as soon as tomorrow against the New York Knicks.

According to head coach Brad Stevens, Smart would not see any tune-up games in the D-League, but would play limited minutes upon re-joining the Celtics' line-up:




In addition, Brad Stevens suggested that Smart would be integrated into the second unit upon his return as opposed to jumping back into the starting 5:



In Smart's 9 games this season, he has averaged 9.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 29.1 minutes per game. During his absence the past 17 games, the Celtics have won 9 and lost 8.

According to teammate Evan Turner, Smart's energy and hustle on the court has been greatly missed, especially during their 3-game losing skid:




 
Photo: Jessica Hill/Associated Press